Smoking substitute device, cap removal device, and system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to a smoking substitute device and particularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking substitute device comprising movable element for closing a consumable receiving opening. Accordingly, there is provided a substitute smoking device comprising a housing having an opening for receiving a substitute smoking consumable, wherein a heating element is arranged in the opening, wherein the substitute smoking system comprises a movable element arranged in the opening and displaceable between a first position and a second position, wherein, in the first position, the opening is substantially unrestricted for receiving a consumable, wherein, in the second position, the opening is substantially closed, and wherein the direction of displacement of the movable element between the first position and the second position is substantially parallel to a longitudinal extension of the housing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCESTATEMENT

This application is a non-provisional application claiming benefit tothe international application no. PCT/EP2021/051941 filed on Jan. 28,2021, which claims priority to EP 20153988.9 filed on Jan. 28, 2020 andto EP 20154009.3 filed on Jan. 28, 2020. The entire contents of each ofthe above-referenced applications are hereby incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a smoking substitute device andparticularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking substitute devicecomprising movable element for closing a consumable receiving opening.The present disclosure also relates to a cap removal tool for a smokingsubstitute device and to a substitute smoking device, and particularly,although not exclusively, to a system comprising a cap removal tool anda substitute smoking device.

BACKGROUND

The smoking of tobacco is generally considered to expose a smoker topotentially harmful substances. It is generally thought that asignificant amount of the potentially harmful substances are generatedthrough the heat caused by the burning and/or combustion of the tobaccoand the constituents of the burnt tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself.

Conventional combustible smoking articles, such as cigarettes, typicallycomprise a cylindrical rod of tobacco comprising shreds of tobacco whichis surrounded by a wrapper, and usually also a cylindrical filteraxially aligned in an abutting relationship with the wrapped tobaccorod. The filter typically comprises a filtration material which iscircumscribed by a plug wrap. The wrapped tobacco rod and the filter arejoined together by a wrapped band of tipping paper that circumscribesthe entire length of the filter and an adjacent portion of the wrappedtobacco rod. A conventional cigarette of this type is used by lightingthe end opposite to the filter, and burning the tobacco rod. The smokerreceives mainstream smoke into their mouth by drawing on the mouth endor filter end of the cigarette.

Combustion of organic material such as tobacco is known to produce tarand other potentially harmful by-products. There have been proposedvarious smoking substitute systems (or “substitute smoking systems”) inorder to avoid the smoking of tobacco.

Such smoking substitute systems can form part of nicotine replacementtherapies aimed at people who wish to stop smoking and overcome adependence on nicotine.

Smoking substitute systems include electronic systems that permit a userto simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also referred toas a “vapour”) that is drawn into the lungs through the mouth (inhaled)and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol typically bears nicotine and/orflavourings without, or with fewer of, the odour and health risksassociated with traditional smoking.

In general, smoking substitute systems are intended to provide asubstitute for the rituals of smoking, whilst providing the user with asimilar experience and satisfaction to those experienced withtraditional smoking and with combustible tobacco products. Some smokingsubstitute systems use smoking substitute articles (also referred to asa “consumables”) that are designed to resemble a traditional cigaretteand are cylindrical in form with a mouthpiece at one end.

The popularity and use of smoking substitute systems has grown rapidlyin the past few years. Although originally marketed as an aid to assisthabitual smokers wishing to quit tobacco smoking, consumers areincreasingly viewing smoking substitute systems as desirable lifestyleaccessories.

There are a number of different categories of smoking substitutesystems, each utilising a different smoking substitute approach.

One approach for a smoking substitute system is the so-called HeatedTobacco (“HT”) approach in which tobacco (rather than an “e-liquid”) isheated or warmed to release vapour. HT is also known as “heat not burn”(“HNB”). The tobacco may be leaf tobacco or reconstituted tobacco. Thevapour may contain nicotine and/or flavourings. In the HT approach theintention is that the tobacco is heated but not burned, i.e., thetobacco does not undergo combustion.

A typical HT smoking substitute system may include a device and aconsumable. The consumable may include the tobacco material. The deviceand consumable may be configured to be physically coupled together. Inuse, heat may be imparted to the tobacco material by a heating elementof the device, wherein airflow through the tobacco material causescomponents in the tobacco material to be released as vapour. A vapourmay also be formed from a carrier in the tobacco material (this carriermay for example include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine) andadditionally volatile compounds released from the tobacco. The releasedvapour may be entrained in the airflow drawn through the tobacco.

As the vapour passes through the consumable (entrained in the airflow)from the location of vaporisation to an outlet of the consumable (e.g.,a mouthpiece), the vapour cools and condenses to form an aerosol forinhalation by the user. The aerosol will normally contain the volatilecompounds.

In HT smoking substitute systems, heating as opposed to burning thetobacco material is believed to cause fewer, or smaller quantities, ofthe more harmful compounds ordinarily produced during smoking.Consequently, the HT approach may reduce the odour and/or health risksthat can arise through the burning, combustion and pyrolytic degradationof tobacco.

There may be a need for improved design of smoking substitute systems,in particular HT smoking substitute systems, to enhance the userexperience and improve the function of the HT smoking substitute system.

The present disclosure has been devised in the light of the aboveconsiderations.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

At their most general, some aspects of the present disclosure relate toa cap removal tool for removing the cap of a smoking substitute deviceand to a substitute smoking device, and particularly, although notexclusively, to a system comprising a cap removal tool and a substitutesmoking device.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provideda substitute smoking device, comprising a housing having a cavity forreceiving a substitute smoking consumable and a heating element arrangedin the cavity, the housing further comprising a housing body and amovable section, wherein by displacing the movable section relative tothe housing body, the heating element is exposable and a locking elementfor connecting the movable section and the housing, wherein, byunlocking the locking element, the connection of the movable section andthe housing is unlocked and the movable element is movable relative tothe housing, thereby exposing the heating element.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided a cap removal tool adapted for unlocking a cap of a substitutesmoking device by relative rotation between the cap removal tool and thesubstitute smoking device.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provideda system for removing a cap from a substitute smoking device, comprisinga substitute smoking device according to the present disclosure, and acap removal tool according to the present disclosure, adapted forunlocking the locking element of the substitute smoking device.

By providing a cap removal tool according the present disclosure, a capof a substitute smoking device may be unlocked in preparation forremoval. The cap and the remaining housing of the substitute smokingdevice may be locked or fastened to one another by a locking element. Alocking of the locking element fastens, attaches or locks the cap andthe body to one another, substantially without play. The locking elementmay be locked/unlocked by a rotating motion of the cap removal tool whenengaged with the locking element. In particular a relative rotationbetween the cap removal tool and the substitute smoking device maylock/unlock the locking element.

For the unlocking of the cap, the cap removal tool may be inserted intoa cavity, such as a consumable receiving cavity of the substitutesmoking device. A locking element may be arranged in the cavity, e.g.,at the internal side adjacent to the heating element, and may lock thecap and the remaining body or housing of the substitute smoking devicerelative to one another. Locking may be understood as fastening the capand the body to one another so that during normal use or operation ofthe substitute smoking device both element stay in relative position toone another substantially without play.

A user, when trying to unlock the cap from the body, may thus insert thecap removal tool tin the cavity of the substitute smoking device, mayengage the cap removal tool with the locking element and maysubsequently initiate unlocking, by rotating the cap removal tool andthe substitute smoking device relative to one another, thereby releasingthe locking, or in other words, releasing the defined relative positionof the substitute smoking device and the cap.

Put another way, the cap removal tool is designed to remove the uppersection (cap) of a substitute smoking device, such as a heated tobaccodevice in order to facilitate ease of cleaning. The cap removal tool isa socket type tool to rotate the locking element, like a captive nut orbayonet in the cavity, e.g., the inner end of the cavity adjacent to therod heater. This in turn may result in releasing the upper section (cap)of the device from the main body allowing it to be relocated, i.e.,moved from the position that is assumed during operation and in whichthe locking element locks the cap relative to the body, or removedcompletely from the substitute smoking device for cleaning thesubstitute smoking device, in particular the heater element.

With the moved or removed cap, the heater element of the substitutesmoking device may be exposed. In other words, the heater element may beaccessible in a way that would normally prevent a normal operation, dueto risk of damage to the heater element or injury to a user of thedevice. The heater element may in particularly be accessible externallyfor cleaning or inspection, e.g., through an opening or window formingdue to the movement of the cap, during non-operation.

Optional features of the above-noted aspects will now be set out. Theseare applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, a lockingelement for locking the cap of the substitute smoking device may belockable and/or unlockable by rotation of the cap removal tool in acavity of the substitute smoking device.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the cavity may further comprise an inner surface that is adapted forengagement with the locking element of the substitute smoking device.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the locking element may be an element out of the group consisting of ascrew, a nut, a captive nut and a bayonet element.

The cap removal tool may be arranged to engage with the locking elementin order to perform the locking/unlocking. A screw or nut may be asimple example of such a locking element, but it is conceivable that thelocking element is embodied differently, as long as a locking/unlockingby a rotatory movement may be realized. The inner surface of the cavityof the cap removal tool may have a shape corresponding or conforming toa shape of the locking element, in order to engage with the lockingelement. Exemplarily, the cap removal tool cavity may have an innershape conforming to the outer shape of the locking element like a nutand socket, for engagement, subsequently allowing the rotation of thenu, thereby releasing the lock between the cap and the substitutesmoking device body.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the cap removal tool may further comprise a first section having agenerally cylindrical outer surface, wherein at least part of the firstsection may be adapted for insertion into the cavity of the substitutesmoking device and may be engageable with the locking element forunlocking the locking element.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the outer surface of the first section and the inner surface of thecavity may conform to one another so to support rotation of the capremoval tool in the cavity.

In other words, e.g., the diameter of the outer surface of the firstsection and the diameter of the inner surface of the cavity of thesubstitute smoking device conform such that a rotatory movement of thefirst section inside the cavity may be performed, which the firstsection is centered while engaged with the locking element. Also, whenin the process of establishing the engagement, the cavity may provide aguide to the cap removal tool in particulate its first section forguiding the cap removal tool to engagement. Conform may mean that therespective sizes match in size and diameter substantially without play,or in other words mate.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the cap removal tool may further comprise a cavity in the first sectionfor accommodating a heating element of the substitute smoking device.

The cavity may thus receive the heating element, without directlyinteracting with the same. This may provide the benefit of protectingthe heating element while inserting the cap removal tool, in particularits first section. The guiding of the first section as just explainedmay beneficially add to the protection of the heating element whileinserting the cap removal tool. In other words, the cavity in the firstsection avoids damage to the heating element during insertion androtation of the cap removal tool and allows that the first sectionreaches to the bottom of the substitute smoking device cavity forengaging with the locking element.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the locking element may be lockable and/or unlockable by a cap removaltool at least partially inserted in the cavity.

This allows for a further part of the cap removal tool to remain outsideof the cavity, accessible to a user for operation, i.e., rotation of thecap removal tool.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the movable element, in the unlocked state, may be separable from thehousing body.

In addition to merely moving from the locked position, the cap may becompletely removed from the body of the substitute smoking device toeven have better access to the heating element, or further elements, forcleaning or other purposes.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure,the substitute smoking device may further comprise an actuation elementfor moving the unlocked cap to a second position.

The actuation mechanism may move the cap to a second position, e.g., acleaning position, substantially without user action. A suitableactuation mechanism may be a spring mechanism that may push the cap tothe second position, thereby opening a window for accessing the heatingelement. The actuation mechanism may keep the cap in the second positionwhile conducting the cleaning.

At its most general, another aspect of the present disclosure relates toa smoking substitute device comprising movable element for closing aconsumable receiving opening.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a substitutesmoking device comprising a housing having an opening for receiving asubstitute smoking consumable, wherein a heating element is arranged inthe opening, wherein the substitute smoking system comprises a movableelement arranged in the opening and displaceable between a firstposition and a second position, wherein, in the first position, theopening is substantially unrestricted for receiving a consumable,wherein, in the second position, the opening is substantially closed,and wherein the direction of displacement of the movable element betweenthe first position and the second position is substantially parallel toa longitudinal extension of the housing.

By providing a substitute smoking device comprising a movable elementfor closing of the consumable receiving opening or cavity, thesubstitute smoking device may provide an easy, user friendly andintuitive mechanism for closing of the substitute smoking device whennot in use. Additionally, the movable element may assist in cleaning ofthe substitute smoking device, in particular the consumable receivingopening or cavity by removing debris, deposits or other residue that(unintentionally) remains in the opening after using the substitutesmoking device., e.g., in a conventional substitute smoking device, theremoval of the consumable may be performed by manual user operation,e.g., by pulling the consumable from the cavity. This may result, due tothe uneven external forces acting on the consumable, e.g., a pull-force,that part of the consumable sticks to the heater element or a wall ofthe cavity. Without proper user interaction, i.e., a suitable cleaning,possibly using a dedicated cleaning tool, debris may remain in thecavity and may interfere with a subsequent use. For example, remainingdebris may hinder the proper insertion of the next consumable, mayresult in insufficient penetration of the consumable by the heaterelement, e.g., due to partially blocking the cavity, or in insufficientheat transfer from the heating element to the consumable, in particularits aerosol-forming substrate, e.g., tobacco material. Thereby, adiminished user experience may be the result.

The movable element of the present disclosure may provide the benefitsof a quasi-automatic cleaning of essential elements of the substitutesmoking device, like the heater element and/or the walls of theconsumable receiving opening or cavity, while assisting a user inremoving the consumable. After removal of the consumable, the movableelement may additionally provide a closure of the opening or cavity,thereby avoiding that external debris enters the opening or cavity whenthe substitute smoking device is not in use.

Further optional features will now be set out. These are applicablesingly or in any combination with any aspect.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the movableelement, in the second position, may be arranged substantially flushwith the housing.

By providing such a movable element the movable element may provide thefunctionality to close off a consumable-receiving opening of cavity ofthe substitute smoking device, so to avoid entering of debris. This maybe particularly relevant in case the substitute smoking device is storedin a pocket or bag between uses, and in particular not in an additionalcase., e.g., lint or fluff may be particularly harmful as these mayreact negatively to the heat provided by the heating element during use.The closing of the opening or cavity by the movable element may make anadditional, separate closing element, like a plug or puck to be insertedexternally into the substitute smoking device, redundant.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the heatingelement may have a longitudinal extension, and the direction ofdisplacement of the movable element between the first position and thesecond position may be substantially parallel to the longitudinalextension of the heating element.

Such a movement may allow providing a movable element that in oneposition exposes the heating element in the opening or cavity, while inthe other position covers the same. The heating element may assist intransitioning bet ween the position, e.g., by acting as a guidingelement for the movable element. Further, such a movement may allow amovable element that substantially covers the complete opening or cavitywhen in the second position, thereby providing a rigid means for closingthe opening. Alternative solutions like merely covering the openingitself, by a slidable or rotatable element that slides/rotates in frontof the opening may be prone to damage by external forces, like apiercing or prying force.

The movable element may however not be completely solid, i.e., filledwith a material, but may comprise a void between an outer boundary incontact with or resting against the walls of the opening and an innerboundary in contact with or resting against the heating element.Alternatively, in case the heating element in integral with the walls ofthe cavity, the movable element may in substance consist of the outerboundary in contact with or resting against the walls of the opening anda top part substantially flush with the housing. The void may be empty,or may be filled with a material having enhanced or beneficialproperties, like, e.g., beneficial heat dissipating properties.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the movableelement may be arranged as a platform element that can be raised andlowered in the opening to be displaceable between the first position andthe second position.

Such a platform element may provide a preferred contact with a flatsurface of a substitute smoking device consumable for removing a usedconsumable by movement of the movable element to the second position, ormoving the platform element to the first position when inserting a newconsumable.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the heatingelement may have a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the movableelement, in the first position, is arranged closer to the proximal endof the heating element than to the distal end and is at least partiallyexposing the heater element in the opening, and wherein the movableelement, in the second position, is arranged closer to the distal end ofthe heating element than to the proximal and covering the heaterelement.

For example, when looking from outside of the substitute smoking device,into the opening, the distal end may be the end closed to the viewer/tothe end of the SDD, while the proximal end may be the end arrangedfurther inside the SDD housing. The proximal end may in particular bethe end where the electric wiring of the heating element connects withthe heating element.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the movableelement, when moved from the first position to the second position maybe adapted to remove debris from the inside of the opening to theoutside of the housing, in particular may be adapted to remove debrisattached to walls of the opening and/or to the heating element to theoutside of the housing.

The movable element may be in contact with or resting against the wallsof the opening and an inner boundary and/or may be in contact with orresting against the heating element thereby providing a cleaningfunction of the opening and/or the heating element. In other words, bythe contact, the movable element may, e.g., scrape debris or dirt offthe walls or the heating element, or may simply push debris located inthe opening to the outside of the opening, when transitioning from thefirst position to the second position.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the movableelement, when moved from the first position to the second position maybe adapted to remove a consumable from the opening.

For example, by moving from the first position to the second position,the movable element may push a consumable to the outside of the openingor cavity, thereby removing the same from the opening.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the substitutesmoking system may comprise an actuation mechanism for moving themovable element between the first position and the second position,and/or wherein the movable element may be moved from the second positionto the first position by insertion of a consumable into the smokingsubstitute device.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the actuationmechanism may be a mechanism out of the group consisting of an activeactuation mechanism, a passive actuation mechanism, a manual actuationmechanism, a spring mechanism, a lever mechanism, and an electronicallyactuated mechanism.

The actuation mechanism may be an externally operable mechanism. Theresulting movement of the movable element, e.g., for lowering/raisingthe platform element, may be a passive mechanism, e.g., the pushing aswitch or slider, or moving a (manual) lever. The actuation mayalternatively also be an active mechanism, e.g., employing an electricmotor or the like, for directly moving the movable element or for movingthe actuation mechanism to in turn move the movable element.

For example, in case or a spring element, the movable element may bemoved, like raising the platform element (moving to the secondposition), when the consumable is removed. Thereby, the describedcleaning operation may be provided. On the same token, the user, wheninserting a new consumable, may counteract the spring force, moving themovable element to the first position, while the heating elementpenetrates the heating element. An inserted consumable may stay in thecavity by friction forces between the consumable, in particular a filterpart or an aerosol-forming material, and the walls of the opening and/orthe heating element, thus without a separate locking of the movableelement in the first position. After consumption of the consumable, theconsumable may have altered properties, which reduce or cancel thefriction forces, and thus provide an eased or “automatic” removal of theconsumable. In other words, a physical change in a property, e.g., thedrying of aerosol-forming material during use of the substitute smokingdevice, may sufficiently reduce the friction to a point where the springforce of the actuation mechanism exceed the friction force and therebyquasi-automatically eject the consumable.

Still further, an actuation mechanism may provide a user-triggered orevent-triggered ejection of the consumable. This may provide the playfuladdition of ejecting the consumable after consumption, e.g., targeting awaste bin, to further increase user experience and pleasure of operatingthe substitute smoking device.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the movableelement may be movable between the first position and the secondposition by user operation, in particular by using the same hand foruser operation of the smoking substitute device and for moving themovable element between the first position and the second position.

The user may use a finger, e.g., a thumb, for operation of thesubstitute smoking device, and may use the same finger, or anotherfinger of the same hand, for operation of the movable element., e.g.,the thumb may activate an active or passive actuation mechanism, therebymoving the movable element between the first position and/or the secondposition.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the substitutesmoking device may be activatable and/or deactivatable dependent on themovable element assuming one of the first and second positions, inparticular wherein the substitute smoking device may be activatable bymoving the movable element into the first position and/or wherein thesubstitute smoking device may be deactivatable by moving the movableelement into the second position.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, moving themovable element into the second position may provide an emergencyshutdown functionality for the substitute smoking device and/or theheater element.

The substitute smoking device may comprise a detection element fordetecting the position of the movable element and dependent on theposition may switch on (first position) and/or switch off (secondposition) the substitute smoking device. Alternatively, only the heatingelement may be switched on and/or off dependent on a position of themovable element. In particular a movement of the movable element, e.g.,by a passive actuation mechanism may trigger the complete shutdown ofthe substitute smoking device and/or the heating element, therebyproviding an emergency shutdown functionality., e.g., in case of amalfunctioning of the heating element, like an overheating of theconsumable, the user may move the movable element to the secondposition, thereby activating the emergency shutdown. Stillalternatively, a fault detection element may detect a fault in operationof the substitute smoking device and may activate an active actuationmechanism to move the movable element to the second position, therebyactivating the emergency shutdown, while possibly even ejecting theconsumable from the opening, to avoid further consumption and/or avoidoverheating of the consumable.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the movableelement may comprise an opening for accommodating the heating element,in particular when in the first position.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the opening ofthe movable element may be open in the first position to accommodate theheating element, and/or wherein the opening of the movable element maybe substantially closed in the second position to close the opening ofthe housing.

The movable element may comprise an opening, e.g., a central openingthat substantially completely surrounds the heater element, and inparticular is in contact with the heater element so to remove debris ordeposits from the surface of the heater element. This may require thatthe movable element moves along a longitudinal extension of the heaterelement and thus along a longitudinal extension of the substitutesmoking device. The opening may be a central opening to allowdisplacement of the movable element between positions. The closing ofthe opening of the movable element in the second position may provide acomplete closure of the substitute smoking device opening or cavity bythe movable element in the second position.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the heatingelement may comprise a heat dissipating material and may be arranged forremoving heat from the heating element when in the second position.

In particular, the movable element may consist of such a material, or incase of a hollow movable element, the material may be arranged in thevoid in the interior of the movable element. The material of the movableelement may assist in a heat transfer (e.g., cooling of) from theheating element, when in the raised/closed, second position. This mayallow the closing of the substitute smoking device, i.e., the moving ofthe movable element from the first position to the second positionsubstantially immediately after ending use, upon/with the removal ofconsumable. A suitable material may, e.g., be a metal or metal alloy, ora carbon composite material. The melting temperature of any suitablematerial may preferably be sufficiently higher than the operatingtemperature and/or an assumed malfunctioning temperature of the heatingelement. In particular in the latter case, the material may providesufficient heat dissipation required for an emergency shutdownfunctionality. On the same token, the opening or cavity is substantiallysealed by the movable element to prevent injury of a user due toexposure to the excess heat of the heating element.

The device may comprise an elongate body. An end of the elongate bodymay be configured for engagement with an aerosol-forming article. Forexample, the body may be configured for engagement with a heated tobacco(HT) consumable (or heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable). The terms “heatedtobacco” and “heat-not-burn” are used interchangeably herein to describea consumable that is of the type that is heated rather than combusted(or are used interchangeably to describe a device for use with such aconsumable). The device may comprise a cavity that is configured forreceipt of at least a portion of the consumable (i.e., for engagementwith the consumable). The aerosol-forming article may be of the typethat comprises an aerosol former (e.g., carried by an aerosol-formingsubstrate).

The device may comprise a heater for heating the aerosol-formingarticle. The heater may comprise a heating element, which may be in theform of a rod that extends from the body of the device. The heatingelement may extend from the end of the body that is configured forengagement with the aerosol-forming article.

The heater (and thus the heating element) may be rigidly mounted to thebody. The heating element may be elongate so as to define a longitudinalaxis and may, for example, have a transverse profile (i.e., transverseto a longitudinal axis of the heating element) that is substantiallycircular (i.e., the heating element may be generally cylindrical).Alternatively, the heating element may have a transverse profile that isrectangular (i.e., the heater may be a “blade heater”). The heatingelement may alternatively be in the shape of a tube (i.e., the heatermay be a “tube heater”). The heating element may take other forms (e.g.,the heating element may have an elliptical transverse profile). Theshape and/or size (e.g., diameter) of the transverse profile of theheating element may be generally consistent for the entire length (orsubstantially the entire length) of the heating element.

The heating element may be between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g., between18 mm and 20 mm long, e.g., around 19 mm long. The heating element mayhave a diameter of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, e.g., a diameter between 2mm and 2.3 mm, e.g., a diameter of around 2.15 mm.

The heating element may be formed of ceramic. The heating element maycomprise a core (e.g., a ceramic core) comprising Al2O3. The core of theheating element may have a diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, e.g., between1.9 mm and 2 mm. The heating element may comprise an outer layer (e.g.,an outer ceramic layer) comprising Al2O3. The thickness of the outerlayer may be between 160 μm and 220 μm, e.g., between 170 μm and 190 μm,e.g., around 180 μm. The heating element may comprise a heating track,which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heatingtrack may be sandwiched between the outer layer and the core of theheating element. The heating track may comprise tungsten and/or rhenium.The heating track may have a thickness of around 20 μm.

The heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device), andmay extend (e.g., along a longitudinal axis) from an internal base ofthe cavity towards an opening of the cavity. The length of the heatingelement (i.e., along the longitudinal axis of the heater) may be lessthan the depth of the cavity. Hence, the heating element may extend foronly a portion of the length of the cavity. That is, the heating elementmay not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.

The heating element may be configured for insertion into anaerosol-forming article (e.g., a HT consumable) when an aerosol-formingarticle is received in the cavity. In that respect, a distal end (i.e.,distal from a base of the heating element where it is mounted to thedevice) of the heating element may comprise a tapered portion, which mayfacilitate insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-formingarticle. The heating element may fully penetrate an aerosol-formingarticle when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. Thatis, the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of theheating element may be received in the aerosol-forming article.

The heating element may have a length that is less than, orsubstantially the same as, an axial length of an aerosol-formingsubstrate forming part of an aerosol-forming article (e.g., a HTconsumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged withthe device, the heating element may only penetrate the aerosol-formingsubstrate, rather than other components of the aerosol-forming article.The heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate forsubstantially the entire axial length of the aerosol forming-substrateof the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be transferred from(e.g., an outer circumferential surface of) the heating element to thesurrounding aerosol-forming substrate, when penetrated by the heatingelement. That is, heat may be transferred radially outwardly (in thecase of a cylindrical heating element) or, e.g., radially inwardly (inthe case of a tube heater).

Where the heater is a tube heater, the heating element of the tubeheater may surround at least a portion of the cavity. When the portionof the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity, the heatingelement may surround a portion of the aerosol-forming article (i.e., soas to heat that portion of the aerosol-forming article). In particular,the heating element may surround an aerosol forming substrate of theaerosol-forming article. That is, when an aerosol-forming article isengaged with the device, the aerosol forming substrate of theaerosol-forming article may be located adjacent an inner surface of the(tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated, heatmay be transferred radially inwardly from the inner surface of theheating element to heat the aerosol forming substrate.

The cavity may comprise a (e.g., circumferential) wall (or walls) andthe (tubular) heating element may extend around at least a portion ofthe wall(s). In this way, the wall may be located between the innersurface of the heating element and an outer surface of theaerosol-forming article. The wall (or walls) of the cavity may be formedfrom a thermally conductive material (e.g., a metal) to allow heatconduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article.Thus, heat may be conducted from the heating element, through the cavitywall (or walls), to the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-formingarticle received in the cavity.

In some embodiments the device may comprise a cap disposed at the end ofthe body that is configured for engagement with an aerosol-formingarticle. Where the device comprises a heater having a heating element,the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element. The cap maybe moveable between an open position in which access is provided to theheating element, and a closed position in which the cap at leastpartially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slideably engagedwith the body of the device, and may be slideable between the open andclosed positions.

The cap may define at least a portion of the cavity of the device. Thatis, the cavity may be fully defined by the cap, or each of the cap andbody may define a portion of the cavity. Where the cap fully defines thecavity, the cap may comprise an aperture for receipt of the heatingelement into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). Thecap may comprise an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configuredfor receipt of at least a portion of an aerosol-forming article. Thatis, an aerosol-forming article may be inserted through the opening andinto the cavity (so as to be engaged with the device).

The cap may be configured such that when an aerosol-forming article isengaged with the device (e.g., received in the cavity), only a portionof the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. That is, aportion of the aerosol-forming article (not received in the cavity) mayprotrude from (i.e., extend beyond) the opening. This (protruding)portion of the aerosol-forming article may be a terminal (e.g., mouth)end of the aerosol-forming article, which may be received in a user'smouth for the purpose of inhaling aerosol formed by the device.

The device may comprise a power source or may be connectable to a powersource (e.g., a power source separate to the device). The power sourcemay be electrically connectable to the heater. In that respect, altering(e.g., toggling) the electrical connection of the power source to theheater may affect a state of the heater. For example, toggling theelectrical connection of the power source to the heater may toggle theheater between an on state and an off state. The power source may be apower store. For example, the power source may be a battery orrechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery).

The device may comprise an input connection (e.g., a USB port, Micro USBport, USB-C port, etc.). The input connection may be configured forconnection to an external source of electrical power, such as a mainselectrical supply outlet. The input connection may, in some cases, beused as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g., battery orrechargeable battery). That is, the input connection may be electricallyconnectable to the heater (for providing power to the heater). Hence, insome forms, the input connection may form at least part of the powersource of the device.

Where the power source comprises a rechargeable power source (such as arechargeable battery), the input connection may be used to charge andrecharge the power source.

The device may comprise a user interface (UI). In some embodiments theUI may include input means to receive operative commands from the user.The input means of the UI may allow the user to control at least oneaspect of the operation of the device. In some embodiments the inputmeans may comprise a power button to switch the device between an onstate and an off state.

In some embodiments the UI may additionally or alternatively compriseoutput means to convey information to the user. In some embodiments theoutput means may comprise a light to indicate a condition of the device(and/or the aerosol-forming article) to the user. The condition of thedevice (and/or aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user maycomprise a condition indicative of the operation of the heater. Forexample, the condition may comprise whether the heater is in an offstate or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI unit may comprise atleast one of a button, a display, a touchscreen, a switch, a light, andthe like. For example, the output means may comprise one or more (e.g.,two, three, four, etc.) light-emitting diodes (“LEDs”) that may belocated on the body of the device.

The device may further comprise a puff sensor (e.g., airflow sensor),which form part of the input means of the UI. The puff sensor may beconfigured to detect a user drawing on an end (i.e., a terminal (mouth)end) of the aerosol-forming article. The puff sensor may, for example,be a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configuredto produce a signal indicative of a puff state. The signal may beindicative of the user drawing (an aerosol from the aerosol-formingarticle) such that it is, e.g., in the form of a binary signal.Alternatively, or additionally, the signal may be indicative of acharacteristic of the draw (e.g., a flow rate of the draw, length oftime of the draw, etc.).

The device may comprise a controller, or may be connectable to acontroller that may be configured to control at least one function ofthe device. The controller may comprise a microcontroller that may,e.g., be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller mayalso comprise a memory, e.g., non-volatile memory. The memory mayinclude instructions, which, when implemented, may cause the controllerto perform certain tasks or steps of a method. Where the devicecomprises an input connection, the controller may be connected to theinput connection.

The controller may be configured to control the operation of the heater(and, e.g., the heating element). Thus, the controller may be configuredto control vaporisation of an aerosol forming part of an aerosol-formingarticle engaged with the device. The controller may be configured tocontrol the voltage applied by power source to the heater. For example,the controller may be configured to toggle between applying a fulloutput voltage (of the power source) to the heater and applying novoltage to the heater. Alternatively, or additionally, the control unitmay implement a more complex heater control protocol.

The device may further comprise a voltage regulator to regulate theoutput voltage supplied by the power source to form a regulated voltage.The regulated voltage may subsequently be applied to the heater.

In some embodiments, where the device comprises a UI, the controller maybe operatively connected to one or more components of the UI. Thecontroller may be configured to receive command signals from an inputmeans of the UI. The controller may be configured to control the heaterin response to the command signals. For example, the controller may beconfigured to receive “on” and “off” command signals from the UI and, inresponse, may control the heater so as to be in a corresponding on oroff state.

The controller may be configured to send output signals to a componentof the UI. The UI may be configured to convey information to a user, viaan output means, in response to such output signals (received from thecontroller). For example, where the device comprises one or more LEDs,the LEDs may be operatively connected to the controller. Hence, thecontroller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs(e.g., in response to an output signal). For example, the controller maybe configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to(e.g., an on or off) state of the heater.

Where the device comprises a sensor (e.g., a puff/airflow sensor), thecontroller may be operatively connected to the sensor. The controllermay be configured to receive a signal from the sensor (e.g., indicativeof a condition of the device and/or engaged aerosol-forming article).The controller may be configured to control the heater, or an aspect ofthe output means, based on the signal from the sensor.

In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to detect aposition of the movable element, a temperature of the heating elementand/or the condition of the operation with regard to a normal orabnormal (emergency) operation situation.

In some embodiments, the controller may be operatively connected to theactuating element, to trigger an active movement of the movable elementor to detect a manual movement, e.g., by a user.

The controller may be configured to receive a temperature, position orcontrol.

The device may comprise a wireless interface configured to communicatewirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth (e.g., a Bluetooth low-energyconnection) or WIFI) with an external device. Similarly, the inputconnection may be configured for wired connection to an external deviceso as to provide communication between the device and the externaldevice.

The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the externaldevice may be a smart phone, tablet, smart watch, or smart car. Anapplication (e.g., app) may be installed on the external device (e.g.,mobile device). The application may facilitate communication between thedevice and the external device via the wired or wireless connection.

The wireless or wired interface may be configured to transfer signalsbetween the external device and the controller of the device. In thisrespect, the controller may control an aspect of the device in responseto a signal received from an external device. Alternatively, oradditionally, an external device may respond to a signal received fromthe device (e.g., from the controller of the device).

There may be provided a system (e.g., a smoking substitute system)comprising a device according to present disclosure and anaerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article may comprise anaerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the aerosol-formingarticle. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitute article,e.g., heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heat-not-burn(HNB) consumable).

As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are intended torefer to the flow direction of the vapour/aerosol, i.e., with thedownstream end of the article/consumable being the mouth end or outletwhere the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. Theupstream end of the article/consumable is the opposing end to thedownstream end.

The aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release atleast one volatile compound that can form an aerosol. Theaerosol-forming substrate may be located at the upstream end of thearticle/consumable.

In order to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate comprisesat least one volatile compound that is intended to bevaporised/aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreationaland/or medicinal effect when inhaled. Suitable chemical and/orphysiologically active volatile compounds include the group consistingof: nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, opiates and opioids, cathine andcathinone, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorinA together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/orsynthetic alternatives of the foregoing.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant material. The plantmaterial may comprise least one plant material selected from the listincluding Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry),Argemone mexicana, Amica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees, Galeazacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean), Cecropia mexicana (Guamura),Cestrum noctumum, Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey), Cytisusscoparius, Damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia califomica (CaliforniaPoppy), Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma longiflora, Humulus japonica(Japanese Hops), Humulus lupulus (Hops), Lactuca virosa (Lettuce Opium),Laggera alata, Leonotis leonurus, Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort),Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed), Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia inflata(Indian-tobacco), Lobelia siphilitica, Nepeta cataria (Catnip),Nicotiana species (Tobacco), Nymphaea alba (White Lily), Nymphaeacaerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy, Passiflora incamata (Passionflower),Pedicularis densiflora (Indian Warrior), Pedicularis groenlandica(Elephant's Head), Salvia divinorum, Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage),Salvia species (Sage), Scutellaria galericulata, Scutellarialateriflora, Scutellaria nana, Scutellaria species (Skullcap), Sidaacuta (Wireweed), Sida rhombifolia, Silene capensis, Syzygium aromaticum(Clove), Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon), Tarchonanthus camphoratus,Tumera diffusa (Damiana), Verbascum (Mullein), Zamia latifolia (MaconhaBrava) together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/orsynthetic alternatives of the foregoing.

The plant material may be tobacco. Any type of tobacco may be used. Thisincludes, but is not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco,Maryland Tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark-firedtobacco, perique tobacco and rustica tobacco. This also includes blendsof the above-mentioned tobaccos.

The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco,tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco,homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobaccoand/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon).

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered sheet ofhomogenised (e.g., paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/stripsformed from such a sheet.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more additivesselected from humectants, flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueoussolvents and binders.

The flavourant may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may includementhol, liquorice, chocolate, fruit flavour (including, e.g., citrus,cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) and tobaccoflavour. The flavourant may be evenly dispersed throughout theaerosol-forming substrate or may be provided in isolated locationsand/or varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be formed in a substantiallycylindrical shape such that the article/consumable resembles aconventional cigarette. It may have a diameter of between 5 and 10 mm,e.g., between 6 and 9 mm or 6 and 8 mm, e.g., around 7 mm. It may havean axial length of between 10 and 15 mm, e.g., between 11 and 14 mm suchas around 12 or 13 mm.

The article/consumable may comprise at least one filter element. Theremay be a terminal filter element at the downstream/mouth end of thearticle/consumable.

The or at least one of the filter element(s) (e.g., the terminal filterelement) may be comprised of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. Theat least one filter element (e.g., the terminal filter element) may becomprised of activated charcoal. The at least one filter element (e.g.,the terminal element) may be comprised of paper. The or each filterelement may be at least partly (e.g., entirely) circumscribed with aplug wrap, e.g., a paper plug wrap.

The terminal filter element (at the downstream end of thearticle/consumable) may be joined to the upstream elements forming thearticle/consumable by a circumscribing tipping layer, e.g., a tippingpaper layer. The tipping paper may have an axial length longer than theaxial length of the terminal filter element such that the tipping papercompletely circumscribes the terminal filter element plus the wrappinglayer surrounding any adjacent upstream element.

In some embodiments, the article/consumable may comprise anaerosol-cooling element which is adapted to cool the aerosol generatedfrom the aerosol-forming substrate (by heat exchange) before beinginhaled by the user.

The article/consumable may comprise a spacer element that defines aspace or cavity between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstreamend of the consumable. The spacer element may comprise a cardboard tube.The spacer element may be circumscribed by the (paper) wrapping layer.

The disclosure includes the combination of the aspects and preferredfeatures described except where such a combination is clearlyimpermissible or expressly avoided.

The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive,a feature or parameter described in relation to any one of the aboveaspects may be applied to any other aspect. Furthermore, except wheremutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein may beapplied to any aspect and/or combined with any other feature orparameter described herein.

SUMMARY OF THE FIGURES

So that the disclosure may be understood, and so that further aspectsand features thereof may be appreciated, embodiments illustrating theprinciples of the disclosure will now be discussed in further detailwith reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1A is a schematic of a smoking substitute system;

FIG. 1B is a schematic of a variation of the smoking substitute systemof FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A is a front view of an embodiment of a smoking substitute systemwith the consumable engaged with the device;

FIG. 2B is a front view of the embodiment of the smoking substitutesystem with the consumable disengaged from the device;

FIG. 2C is a section view of the consumable of the embodiment of thesmoking substitute system;

FIG. 2D is a detailed view of an end of the device of the embodiment ofthe smoking substitute system;

FIG. 2E is a section view of the embodiment of the substitute smokingsystem;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are section views of the embodiment of the substitutesmoking device where a movable element is in a first position;

FIG. 3C is a section view of the embodiment of the substitute smokingdevice where the movable element is in a second position;

FIG. 4A is an exemplary embodiment of a cap removal tool according tothe present disclosure; and

FIGS. 4B and 4C show the use of a cap removal tool according to thepresent disclosure for removing the cap of a substitute smoking device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussedwith reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects andembodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documentsmentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 1A is a schematic providing a general overview of a smokingsubstitute system 100. The system 100 includes a substitute smokingdevice 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable102, which comprises an aerosol former 103. The system is configured tovaporise the aerosol former by heating the aerosol former 103 (so as toform a vapour/aerosol for inhalation by a user).

In the illustrated system, the heater 104 forms part of the consumable102 and is configured to heat the aerosol former 103. In this variation,the heater 104 is electrically connectable to the power source 105, forexample, when the consumable 102 is engaged with the device 101. Heatfrom the heater 104 vaporises the aerosol former 103 to produce avapour. The vapour subsequently condenses to form an aerosol, which isultimately inhaled by the user.

The system 100 further comprises a power source 105 that forms part ofthe device 101. In other embodiments the power source 105 may beexternal to (but connectable to) the device 101. The power source 105 iselectrically connectable to the heater 104 such that it is able tosupply power to the heater 104 (i.e., for the purpose of heating theaerosol former 103). Thus, control of the electrical connection of thepower source 105 to the heater 104 provides control of the state of theheater 104. The power source 105 may be a power store, for example abattery or rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery).

The system 100 further comprises an I/O module comprising a connector106 (e.g., in the form of a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.).The connector 106 is configured for connection to an external source ofelectrical power, e.g., a mains electrical supply outlet. The connector106 may be used in substitution for the power source 105. That is theconnector 106 may be electrically connectable to the heater 104 so as tosupply electricity to the heater 104. In such embodiments, the devicemay not include a power source, and the power source of the system mayinstead comprise the connector 106 and an external source of electricalpower (to which the connector 106 provides electrical connection).

In some embodiments, the connector 106 may be used to charge andrecharge the power source 105 where the power source 105 includes arechargeable battery.

The system 100 also comprises a user interface (UI) 107. Although notshown, the UI 107 may include input means to receive commands from auser. The input means of the UI 107 allows the user to control at leastone aspect of the operation of the system 100. The input means may, forexample, be in the form of a button, touchscreen, switch, microphone,etc.

The UI 107 also comprises output means to convey information to theuser. The output means may, for example, comprise lights (e.g., LEDs), adisplay screen, speaker, vibration generator, etc.

The system 100 further comprises a controller 108 that is configured tocontrol at least one function of the device 101. In the illustratedembodiment, the controller 108 is a component of the device 101, but inother embodiments may be separate from (but connectable to) the device101. The controller 108 is configured to control the operation of theheater 104 and, for example, may be configured to control the voltageapplied from the power source 105 to the heater 104. The controller 108may be configured to toggle the supply of power to the heater 104between an on state, in which the full output voltage of the powersource 105 is applied to the heater 104, and an off state, in which theno voltage is applied to the heater 104.

Although not shown, the system 100 may also comprise a voltage regulatorto regulate the output voltage from the power source 105 to form aregulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to theheater 104.

In addition to being connected to the heater 104, the controller 108 isoperatively connected to the UI 107. Thus, the controller 108 mayreceive an input signal from the input means of the UI 107. Similarly,the controller 108 may transmit output signals to the UI 107. Inresponse, the output means of the UI 107 may convey information, basedon the output signals, to a user. The controller also comprises a memory109, which is a non-volatile memory. The memory 109 includesinstructions, which, when implemented, cause the controller to performcertain tasks or steps of a method.

FIG. 1B is a schematic showing a variation of the system 100 of FIG. 1A.In the system 100′ of FIG. 1B, the heater 104 forms part of the device101, rather than the consumable 102. In this variation, the heater 104is electrically connected to the power source 105.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a heated-tobacco (HT) smoking substitutesystem 200. The system 200 is an example of the systems 100, 100′described in relation to FIGS. 1A or 1B. System 200 includes an HTdevice 201 and an HT consumable 202. The description of FIGS. 1A and 1Babove is applicable to the system 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, and will thusnot be repeated.

The device 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that theconsumable 202 can be engaged with the device 201. FIG. 2A shows thedevice 201 and the consumable 202 in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 2Bshows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in a disengaged state.

The device 201 comprises a body 209 and cap 210. In use the cap 210 isengaged at an end of the body 209. Although not apparent from thefigures, the cap 210 is moveable relative to the body 209. Inparticular, the cap 210 is slideable and can slide along a longitudinalaxis of the body 209.

The device 201 comprises an output means (forming part of the UI of thedevice 201) in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)211 arranged linearly along the longitudinal axis of the device 201 andon an outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201. A button 212 isalso arranged on an outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201 andis axially spaced (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) from the pluralityof LEDs 211.

The housing of the substitute smoking device 201 comprises alongitudinal extension L, as depicted in FIG. 2A by the thick blackarrow.

FIG. 2C shows a detailed section view of the consumable of 202 of thesystem 200. The consumable 202 generally resembles a cigarette. In thatrespect, the consumable 202 has a generally cylindrical form with adiameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 70 mm. The consumable 202comprises an aerosol forming substrate 213, a terminal filter element214, an upstream filter element 215 and a spacer element 216. In otherembodiments, the consumable may further comprise a cooling element. Acooling element may exchange heat with vapour that is formed by theaerosol-forming substrate 213 in order to cool the vapour so as tofacilitate condensation of the vapour.

The aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and islocated at an upstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and comprises theaerosol former of the system 200. In that respect, the aerosol formingsubstrate 213 is configured to be heated by the device 201 to release avapour. The released vapour is subsequently entrained in an airflowflowing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The airflow isproduced by the action of the user drawing on a downstream 218 (i.e.,terminal or mouth) end of the consumable 202.

In the present embodiment, the aerosol forming substrate 213 comprisestobacco material that may, for example, include any suitable parts ofthe tobacco plant (e.g., leaves, stems, roots, bark, seeds and flowers).The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco,tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco,homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobaccoand/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon). Forexample, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 may comprise a gathered sheetof homogenised (e.g., paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gatheredshreds/strips formed from such a sheet.

In order to generate an aerosol, the aerosol forming substrate 213comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to bevaporised/aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreationaland/or medicinal effect when inhaled. The aerosol-forming substrate 213may further comprise one or more additives. For example, such additivesmay be in the form of humectants (e.g., propylene glycol and/orvegetable glycerine), flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solventsand/or binders.

The terminal filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical, andis located downstream of the aerosol forming substrate 213 at thedownstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The terminal filter element214 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element having a bore 219(e.g., for airflow) formed therethrough. The diameter of the bore 219 is2 mm. The terminal filter element 214 is formed of a porous (e.g.,monoacetate) filter material. As set forth above, the downstream end 218of the consumable 202 (i.e., where the terminal filter 214 is located)forms a mouthpiece portion of the consumable 202 upon which the userdraws. Airflow is drawn from the upstream end 217, through thecomponents of the consumable 202, and out of the downstream end 218. Theairflow is driven by the user drawing on the downstream end 218 (i.e.,the mouthpiece portion) of the consumable 202.

The upstream filter element 215 is located axially adjacent to theaerosol-forming substrate 213, between the aerosol-forming substrate 213and the terminal filter element 214. Like the terminal filter 214, theupstream filter element 215 is in the form of a hollow bore filterelement, such that it has a bore 220 extending axially therethrough. Inthis way, the upstream filter 215 may act as an airflow restrictor. Theupstream filter element 215 is formed of a porous (e.g., monoacetate)filter material. The bore 220 of the upstream filter element 215 has alarger diameter (3 mm) than the terminal filter element 214.

The spacer 216 is in the form of a cardboard tube, which defines acavity or chamber between the upstream filter element 215 and theterminal filter element 214. The spacer 216 acts to allow both coolingand mixing of the vapour/aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate 213.The spacer has an external diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 14mm.

Although not apparent from the figure, the aerosol-forming substrate213, upstream filter 215 and spacer 216 are circumscribed by a paperwrapping layer. The terminal filter 214 is circumscribed by a tippinglayer that also circumscribes a portion of the paper wrapping layer (soas to connect the terminal filter 214 to the remaining components of theconsumable 202). The upstream filter 215 and terminal filter 214 arecircumscribed by further wrapping layers in the form of plug wraps.

Returning now to the device 201, FIG. 2D illustrates a detailed view ofthe end of the device 201 that is configured to engage with theconsumable 202. The cap 210 of the device 201 includes an opening 221 toan internal cavity 222 (more apparent from FIG. 2D) defined by the cap210. The opening 221 and the cavity 222 are formed so as to receive atleast a portion of the consumable 202. During engagement of theconsumable 202 with the device 201, a portion of the consumable 202 isreceived through the opening 221 and into the cavity 222. Afterengagement (see FIG. 2B), the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202protrudes from the opening 221 and thus also protrudes from the device201. The opening 221 includes laterally disposed notches 226. When aconsumable 202 is received in the opening 221, these notches 226 remainopen and could, for example, be used for retaining a cover in order tocover the end of the device 201. The cavity 222 comprises an inner wall240 that surrounds the consumable when inserted into the cavity. In analternate embodiment not further depicted, the inner walls may serve asa heating element for the consumable, alternatively or in addition tothe heating element 223.

FIG. 2E shows a cross section through a central longitudinal planethrough the device 201. The device 201 is shown with the consumable 202engaged therewith.

The device 201 comprises a heater 204 comprising heating element 223.The heater 204 forms part of the body 209 of the device 201 and isrigidly mounted to the body 209. In the illustrated embodiment, theheater 204 is a rod heater with a heating element 223 having a circulartransverse profile. In other embodiments the heater may be in the formof a blade heater (e.g., heating element with a rectangular transverseprofile) or a tube heater (e.g., heating element with a tubular form).

The heating element 223 of the heater 204 projects from an internal baseof the cavity 222 along a longitudinal axis towards the opening 221. Asis apparent from the figure, the length (i.e., along the longitudinalaxis) of the heating element is less than a depth of the cavity 222. Inthis way, the heating element 223 does not protrude from or extendbeyond the opening 221.

The heating element 223 comprises a longitudinal extension I, asdepicted by the thin black arrow in FIG. 2E, and has a proximal end 242that is closer to the centre of the device than the distal end 244,which substantially corresponds to the tip of the heating element 223.

When the consumable 202 is received in the cavity 222 (as is shown inFIG. 2E), the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 of the consumable 202. In particular, the heating element223 extends for nearly the entire axial length of the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 when inserted therein. Thus, when the heater 204 isactivated, heat is transferred radially from an outer circumferentialsurface the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.

Again, cavity 222 comprising an inner wall 240 is depicted thatsurrounds the consumable when inserted into the cavity. In FIG. 2E, therelevant portion of the cavity may be the surface adjacent to or in thevicinity of the heating element 223.

The device 201 further comprises an electronics cavity 224. A powersource, in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (a lithium-ionbattery), is located in electronics cavity 224.

The device 201 includes a connector (i.e., forming part of an 10 moduleof the device 201) in the form of a USB port 206. The connector mayalternatively be, for example, a micro-USB port or a USB-C port forexamples. The USB port 206 may be used to recharge the rechargeablebattery 205.

The device 201 includes a controller (not shown) located in theelectronics cavity 224. The controller comprises a microcontrollermounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The USB port 206 is alsoconnected to the controller 208 (i.e., connected to the PCB andmicrocontroller).

The controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of thedevice 202. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control theoperation of the heater 204. Such control of the operation of the heater204 may be accomplished by the controller toggling the electricalconnection of the rechargeable battery 205 to the heater 204. Forexample, the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 inresponse to a user depressing the button 212. Depressing the button 212may cause the controller to allow a voltage (from the rechargeablebattery 205) to be applied to the heater 204 (so as to cause the heatingelement 223 to be heated).

The controller is also configured to control the LEDs 211 in response to(e.g., a detected) a condition of the device 201 or the consumable 202.For example, the controller may control the LEDs to indicate whether thedevice 201 is in an on state or an off state (e.g., one or more of theLEDs may be illuminated by the controller when the device is in an onstate).

The device 201 comprises a further input means (i.e., in addition to thebutton 212) in the form of a puff sensor 225. The puff sensor 225 isconfigured to detect a user drawing (i.e., inhaling) at the downstreamend 218 of the consumable 202. The puff sensor 225 may, for example, bein the form of a pressure sensor, flowmeter or a microphone. The puffsensor 225 is operatively connected to the controller 208 in theelectronics cavity 224, such that a signal from the puff sensor 225,indicative of a puff state (i.e., drawing or not drawing), forms aninput to the controller 208 (and can thus be responded to by thecontroller 208).

FIGS. 3A and 3B show section views of the embodiment of the substitutesmoking device where the movable element is in the first position. InFIG. 3A, the movable element 310/the platform element 312 are in thefirst position, and the heating element 223 is not depicted for sake ofclarity. In FIG. 3B, the movable element 310/the platform element 312still are in the first position, and the heating element 223 is depictedin the middle of the movable element 310. The opening 221 or the cavityfor receiving the consumable is substantially open and exposed, therebyallowing the insertion of a consumable by a user of the substitutesmoking device. In other words, the opening is substantiallyunrestricted for receiving a consumable 202.

FIG. 3C shows a section view of the embodiment of the substitute smokingdevice where the movable element is in the second position. Further,FIG. 3C shows that the movable element 310, when in the second positionis substantially flush with the outer surface of the housing and therebyavoids entry of debris into the opening.

The movable element 310 is movable along the longitudinal extension L ofthe housing, and thereby parallel to the longitudinal extension I of theheating element 223. Specifically, in FIGS. 3A to 3C, the movableelement 310 is shown as a platform element 312, which comprises asubstantially flat surface perpendicular to both the longitudinalextension L and I. Thus, the movable element 310 may be in a preferredcontact with the flat surface part of the consumable, for ejecting theconsumable 202 by moving the movable element 310 to the second position,or to move the movable element 310 to the first position by insertingthe consumable 202.

FIG. 3C shows the distal end 244 of the heating element 223, or the tipof the heating element 223, used for penetration of a consumable 202.The proximal end 242 is situated in the interior of the substitutesmoking device 201, not shown in FIG. 3C.

When the movable element 310 is moved from the first position to thesecond position, it may scrape debris, deposits and dirt of the walls ofthe opening 221 and the heating element 223, thereby removing the samefrom the opening 221. The movement may be provided by an actuationmechanism, which is not explicitly depicted in the Figures.

FIGS. 3A and 3C show the opening 314 of the movable element 310 in itsclosed state, while the opening 314 of the movable element 310 in itsopened state in FIG. 3B. Here, the heating element 223 is arranged inthe opened opening 314, thereby allowing the movable element 310 to bein the first position while exposing the opening 221 of the substitutesmoking device 201 and thus the heating element 223.

FIG. 4A is an exemplary embodiment of a cap removal tool 410 accordingto the present disclosure. The cap removal tool is a substantiallycylindrical element having a first section 412 a and a second section412 b. The sections 412 a,b in FIG. 4A are depicted with differentdiameters, however it may be conceivable that both sections have thesame diameter. It may even be that the second section 412 b has a largerdiameter than the first section 412 a, in case that the length of thefirst section is larger than the depth of the cavity 222 of thesubstitute smoking device 201. In case the cavity 222 has a progressiveshape, i.e., a plurality of sections with different diameters, the outershape of the cap removal tool 410 may conform to some or all of saidplurality of sections.

FIGS. 4B and 4C show the use of a cap removal tool according to thepresent disclosure for removing the cap of a substitute smoking device.

The cap removal tool 410 in inserted in the cavity 222. The cap removaltool 410 comprises a cavity 428 at the first section 412 a foraccommodating the heater element 223. FIG. 4B shows this by a cut-outwindow at the region of the first section 412 a. The outer surface ofthe first section 412 a conforms with the inner surface 240 of thecavity 222, for guidance during insertion, subsequent engagement withthe locking element 426 (depicted only schematically in FIG. 4B) androtation 416. As depicted with the rotating arrow 416, a user may rotatethe cap removal tool 410 in the inserted and engaged state for unlockingthe locking element 426 and subsequent displacement or complete removalof the cap 420 from the housing 422 of the substitute smoking device201. In other words, the locking element is unlocked by the cap removaltool 410 to allow separation of the cap 420 and the housing body 424 ofthe housing 422.

As shown in FIG. 4C, the cap 420 has been displaced relative to thehousing body 424 of the housing 422 of the substitute smoking device201, as depicted by arrow 418. By said displacement or relativemovement, a window W opens, thereby exposing the heating element 223. Byexposing the heating element 223, it is accessible from outside of thehousing 422, in particularly accessible for cleaning, removing ofdebris, dirt and deposits or a dislodged (part of a) consumable. The cap420 may be merely shifted for opening the window W or may be completelyremoved from the housing 422 (not depicted in FIG. 4C).

When unlocked, an actuation mechanism (not shown) may move the cap 420to the second position depicted in FIG. 4C substantially without useraction., e.g., a spring mechanism may push the cap 420 to the secondposition, thereby opening window W. The actuation mechanism may keep thecap in the second position while conducting the cleaning. After thecleaning, the cap may be manually placed or moved back to the positionintended for locking. Likewise, a user, when inserting the cap removaltool 410 in order to lock the cap 420 back in its operating position,may use the cap removal tool 410 to push the cap 420 from the secondposition of FIG. 4C to the first position of FIG. 4B, subsequentlycontinuing with the locking of the locking element 426 in order tofasten the cap in its operation position.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the followingclaims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specificforms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or amethod or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate,may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised forrealising the disclosure in diverse forms thereof.

While the disclosure has been described in conjunction with theexemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications andvariations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given thisdisclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure setforth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Variouschanges to the described embodiments may be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the disclosure.

For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations providedherein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of areader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of thesetheoretical explanations.

Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes onlyand are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unlessthe context requires otherwise, the words “have”, “comprise”, and“include”, and variations such as “having”, “comprises”, “comprising”,and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a statedinteger or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion ofany other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referentsunless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressedherein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” anotherparticular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodimentincludes from the one particular value and/or to the other particularvalue. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by theuse of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particularvalue forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to anumerical value is optional and means, for example, +/−10%.

The words “preferred” and “preferably” are used herein refer toembodiments of the disclosure that may provide certain benefits undersome circumstances. It is to be appreciated, however, that otherembodiments may also be preferred under the same or differentcircumstances. The recitation of one or more preferred embodimentstherefore does not mean or imply that other embodiments are not useful,and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of thedisclosure, or from the scope of the claims.

ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in thefollowing numbered clauses:

Clause 1: A substitute smoking device (201), comprising a housing (422)having a cavity (222) for receiving a substitute smoking consumable, anda heating element (223) arranged in the cavity, the housing furthercomprising a housing body (424), and a movable section (420), wherein bydisplacing the movable section relative to the housing body, the heatingelement is exposable, and a locking element (426) for connecting themovable section and the housing, wherein, by unlocking the lockingelement, the connection of the movable section and the housing isunlocked and the movable element is movable relative to the housing,thereby exposing the heating element.

Clause 2: The substitute smoking device according to the precedingclause, wherein the locking element is lockable and/or unlockable by acap removal tool (410) at least partially inserted in the cavity.

Clause 3: The substitute smoking device according to the precedingclause, wherein the locking element is lockable and/or unlockable byrotation of the cap removal tool in the cavity.

Clause 4: The substitute smoking device according to at least one of thepreceding clauses, wherein the locking element is an element out of thegroup consisting of a screw, a nut, a captive nut and a bayonet element.

Clause 5: The substitute smoking device according to at least one of thepreceding clauses, wherein the movable element, in the unlocked state,is separable from the housing body.

Clause 6: The substitute smoking device according to at least one of thepreceding clauses, further comprising an actuation element for movingthe unlocked cap to a second position.

Clause 7: A cap removal tool (410) adapted for unlocking a cap (420) ofa substitute smoking device (201) by relative rotation between the capremoval tool and the substitute smoking device.

Clause 8: The cap removal tool according to the preceding clause,wherein a locking element (426) for locking the cap of the substitutesmoking device is lockable and/or unlockable by rotation of the capremoval tool in a cavity of the substitute smoking device.

Clause 9: The cap removal tool according to the preceding clause,further comprising a first section (412 a) having a generallycylindrical outer surface (414), wherein at least part of the firstsection is adapted for insertion into the cavity of the substitutesmoking device and engageable with the locking element for unlocking thelocking element.

Clause 10: The cap removal tool according to at least one of thepreceding clauses, further comprising a cavity (428) in the firstsection for accommodating a heating element (223) of the substitutesmoking device.

Clause 11: The cap removal tool according to the preceding clause,wherein the cavity comprises an inner surface that is adapted forengagement with the locking element of the substitute smoking device.

Clause 12: A system for removing a cap (420) from a substitute smokingdevice (201), comprising a substitute smoking device (201) according toat least one of clauses 1 to 6 above, and a cap removal tool accordingto at least one of the preceding clauses, adapted for unlocking thelocking element of the substitute smoking device.

Clause 13: The system according to the preceding clause, wherein thelocking element is lockable and unlockable by rotation of the capremoval tool in the cavity of the substitute smoking device.

Clause 14: The system according to at least one of the precedingclauses, wherein the outer surface (414) of the first section (412 a)and the inner surface (240) of the cavity (222) conform to one anotherso as to support rotation of the cap removal tool in the cavity.

What is claimed is:
 1. A substitute smoking device comprising: a housinghaving an opening for receiving a substitute smoking consumable, whereina heating element is arranged in the opening, wherein the substitutesmoking system comprises a movable element arranged in the opening anddisplaceable between a first position and a second position, wherein, inthe first position, the opening is substantially unrestricted forreceiving a consumable, wherein, in the second position, the opening issubstantially closed, and wherein the direction of displacement of themovable element between the first position and the second position issubstantially parallel to a longitudinal extension (L) of the housing.2. The substitute smoking device according to the preceding claim,wherein the movable element, in the second position, is arrangedsubstantially flush with the housing.
 3. The substitute smoking deviceaccording to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the heatingelement has a longitudinal extension (L), and wherein the direction ofdisplacement of the movable element between the first position and thesecond position is substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension(L) of the heating element.
 4. The substitute smoking device accordingto at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable element isarranged as a platform element that can be raised and lowered in theopening to be displaceable between the first position and the secondposition.
 5. The substitute smoking device according to at least one ofthe preceding claims, wherein the heating element has a proximal end anda distal end, wherein the movable element, in the first position, isarranged closer to the proximal end of the heating element than to thedistal end and is at least partially exposing the heater element in theopening, and wherein the movable element, in the second position, isarranged closer to the distal end of the heating element than to theproximal and covering the heater element.
 6. The substitute smokingdevice according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein themovable element, when moved from the first position to the secondposition is adapted to remove debris from the inside of the opening tothe outside of the housing, in particular is adapted to remove debrisattached to walls of the opening and/or to the heating element to theoutside of the housing.
 7. The substitute smoking device according to atleast one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable element, whenmoved from the first position to the second position is adapted toremove a consumable from the opening.
 8. The substitute smoking deviceaccording to at least one of the preceding claims, the substitutesmoking device comprising an actuation mechanism for moving the movableelement between the first position and the second position, and/orwherein the movable element is moved from the second position to thefirst position by insertion of a consumable into the smoking substitutedevice.
 9. The substitute smoking device according to the precedingclaim, wherein the actuation mechanism is a mechanism out of the groupconsisting of an active actuation mechanism, a passive actuationmechanism, a manual actuation mechanism, a spring mechanism, a levermechanism, and an electronically actuated mechanism.
 10. The substitutesmoking device according to at least one of the preceding claims,wherein the movable element is movable between the first position andthe second position by user operation, in particular by using the samehand for user operation of the smoking substitute device and for movingthe movable element between the first position and the second position.11. The substitute smoking device according to at least one of thepreceding claims, wherein the substitute smoking device is activatableand/or deactivatable dependent on the movable element assuming one ofthe first and second positions, in particular wherein the substitutesmoking device is activatable by moving the movable element into thefirst position and/or wherein the substitute smoking device isdeactivatable by moving the movable element into the second position.12. The substitute smoking device according to at least one of thepreceding claims, wherein moving the movable element into the secondposition provides an emergency shutdown functionality for the substitutesmoking device and/or the heater element.
 13. The substitute smokingdevice according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein themovable element comprises an opening for accommodating the heatingelement, in particular when in the first position.
 14. The substitutesmoking device according to the preceding claim, wherein the opening ofthe movable element is open in the first position to accommodate theheating element, and/or wherein the opening of the movable element issubstantially closed in the second position to close the opening of thehousing.
 15. The substitute smoking device according to at least one ofthe preceding claims, wherein the heating element comprises a heatdissipating material and is arranged for removing heat from the heatingelement when in the second position.